Scorsese's "Casino" Turns 30: A Masterpiece Born of Chaos and Controversy

Martin Scorsese's "Casino" was released 30 years ago today, on November 22, 1995. The film, a crime drama that explores the dark side of Las Vegas, has long been considered a masterpiece by many film critics, but its initial reception was mixed. Despite its critical acclaim, "Casino" has often been overshadowed by Scorsese's other works, particularly "GoodFellas." However, with the passage of time, many are now reevaluating the film's place in Scorsese's oeuvre. According to Owen Gleiberman, chief film critic at Variety, "Casino" is a Scorsese masterpiece that deserves more recognition. "When I originally reviewed the film, I didn't say it was a Scorsese masterpiece, or anything close to it," Gleiberman said. "But now, 30 years later, I think it's easy to see why 'Casino' is a Scorsese classic." Gleiberman attributes the film's initial mixed response to its complexity and the audience's unfamiliarity with the subject matter. "The film seemed almost too conscious of its own virtuosity," he noted. "Casino" is based on the true story of the rise and fall of the mob in Las Vegas, with a focus on the lives of three main characters: Ace Rothstein, a sports handicapper; Ginger McKenna, a showgirl; and Nicky Santoro, a ruthless mob enforcer. The film features a star-studded cast, including Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Santoro. The film's impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. "Casino" is widely regarded as one of the greatest films about the mob, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent films and TV shows. The film's depiction of the dark side of Las Vegas has also been credited with changing the way audiences perceive the city. In recent years, "Casino" has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to its inclusion in various "best of" lists and its streaming availability. As a result, many are now reevaluating the film's place in Scorsese's oeuvre. "Casino" is widely regarded as one of Scorsese's greatest works, and its 30th anniversary is a testament to its enduring appeal. With its 30th anniversary, "Casino" is finally getting the recognition it deserves. As Owen Gleiberman noted, "It's time for 'Casino' to take its rightful place as a Scorsese classic."